Severe winds attaining velocities of approximately 155km/h (96mph) have resulted in approximately 90,000 properties without power and compelled agencies to halt more than 100 aircraft departures, based on regional news sources.
The gales are influencing the complete South Island and southern sections of the North Island, as stated by the country's meteorological service.
Officials in New Zealand have released rare severe gust advisories - the highest alert level - in core zones encompassing these major districts.
Locals have been advised to remain inside, avoid travel, and get ready for additional power and communication outages.
Broad Destruction and Emergency Response
The power cut appears to be affecting residences mainly in the southern region, though agencies say that energy was being slowly brought back.
Regional news have indicated that in some places homes have lost their roofs, while trees and electricity poles have been toppled by the winds.
In Wellington, a man was fatally injured after being hit by a tree branch at a popular trail walking spot on Tuesday.
Also in the capital, a female was swept into approaching vehicles on a street by a powerful blast, in a incident that was recorded in a widely shared car camera footage.
Flights to and from the urban area have been suspended due to the weather, while various routes and public facilities are shut down.
Meanwhile Canterbury officials have announced a crisis declaration, to facilitate emergency management operations.
Labor Protests Alongside Harsh Weather
These intense gusts on today coincide with numerous of educators, medical professionals and government employees are engaged in what has been described as a "significant labor action", requesting improved salaries and workplace environments.
Yet the extreme weather has compelled them to alter various scheduled activities, with several external protests relocated inside or cancelled.
Similar gusts are also sweeping the nearby nation, ushering in a high-temperature event to the country's outback.
Agencies have announced fire bans for apprehension regarding forest fires.
